[observer]

If you think the only way to socialize to other dogs is to turn them loose at the dog park, well, no.

You can socialize your dog to other dogs without turning it loose at the dog park. They can socialize on leash on walks or at classes, on "play dates" with KNOWN dogs in more controlled situations, etc. With a dog park, you can think you have a workable situation one moment, let your dog in there, and then the next minute some idiot shows up with a dog that doesn't play well with others, and you can all have a problem in the blink of an eye.

Facing reality, people are going to use them anyway. But, you have to realize that totally irresponsible dog owners use them too. After all, "dog park" sounds like such a nice friendly place. Dog parks have to be used with extreme caution. One bad experience with any loose dog, (and the odds of loose dogs go up at dog parks, obviously) can make a dog dog aggressive for life. My boss had that experience. Keeping her dog safe, and other dogs safe from her, is now a huge responsibility.